Woman sues IHOP franchise alleging retaliation for health conditions

PHILADELPHIA – A Philadelphia woman is suing her employer over claims that she was retaliated against due to her health concerns and in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Tiffany Bonneau filed a complaint Jan. 26 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania against Trihop 69th Street LLC, an IHOP franchise, alleging retaliation and violation of the ADA.

According to the claim, the plaintiff began employment in September 2014 as a server, and although she suffered from various health concerns would still fulfill her duties, with occasional needs for accommodations. Due to her cancer, and other related conditions, the suits states the plaintiff took medical leave in October 2014 due to her disabilities. When she returned in February 2015, the plaintiff suffered hostility, the suit says. The suit states that this included remarks about her wig and removal from the schedule in April 2015 without reason.

Bonneau seeks damages for back and front pay, bonuses, insurance, reinstatement and seniority, as well as emotional distress, pain and suffering and legal fees. She is represented by Ari R. Karpf of Karpf, Karpf & Cerutti PC in Bensalem.

U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Case number 2:16-cv-00311